Author Archives: joyocala

A song entitled “Note to God” was shared by one of Joy’s musicians at a recent Sunday service.  While the song itself is not found in any hymnal or contemporary worship song collection, the words are relevant. The author of … Continue reading →

The space program has always fascinated me. Every time I have gone to the Kennedy Space Center has been a thrill. The adventures of astronauts are me living vicariously. I still dream of being the first Lutheran pastor to orbit … Continue reading →

Whatever does that mean?  I thought it might mean being carefree, running with the wind.  I pictured a kite flying free in the wind.  Or perhaps it refers chasing after something that can’t possibly be caught?  My interest was piqued. … Continue reading →

Webster defines HOME STRETCH as, “the part of a racecourse between the last turn and the winning post.” I love to walk, especially when there is a cool breeze (not a fan of dripping through Florida’s HOT sun, even at nine a.m., lol). … Continue reading →

I think everyone of us at some time in our lives has used one of these “cross your fingers” expressions. It could have been “keep your fingers crossed” or “cross your fingers” or even “fingers crossed.” We tend to use … Continue reading →

It’s that delicious time of the year! Fresh fruits and vegetables at the grocery store and at roadside stands. Well, in Vermont it makes a bigger impression because we don’t have the excellent growing season that we have in Florida.  … Continue reading →

I watched a video series that followed five Amish youth during their rumspringa in Great Britain. Rumspringa (running around) is a time in some Amish communities when older teens are allowed to experience the outside world before they decide if they will be baptized … Continue reading →

From Porgy and Bess, Gershwin shared, “Summertime and the living is easy…” Well, those of us in Florida, know that sometimes the oppressive heat of summer is NOT easy. If instead we focus on the warmth coming from within us, … Continue reading →

There is a lot of information out there. Cyberspace has an infinite number of factoids, data, websites and apps. It is mindboggling to say the least. We can feel overwhelmed, even guilty if we think about everything we’re missing. We … Continue reading →

I’m thinking about neighbors as I write this, because I’m expecting new neighbors today.  We’ve enjoyed two different couples in that home since we moved in, and I’m anxious to meet the new folks.  One thing that’s guaranteed, they’ll be … Continue reading →